Abandonment of property (real estate or personal property) is a legal concept in property law, but has little application in the context of divorce or family law. For example, a spouse or domestic partner does not forfeit an ownership interest in the shared home or any of its contents by moving out of the home. But moving out of the marital or shared home may impact the court’s decision on who may occupy the home while the divorce is pending, and a person should consult with an attorney before making this decision.

A person moving out of the shared home under such circumstances should also be prepared to have limited access to the home and its contents—at least until the court issues an order granting the person access to secure personal property and documents.

In South Dakota, the concept of abandonment of property typically refers to the relinquishing of rights or interest in property without transferring them to another person. However, in the context of divorce or family law, simply moving out of a shared home does not mean a spouse or domestic partner forfeits ownership interest in the property or its contents. South Dakota law recognizes that both parties have rights to marital property until a court decides otherwise. However, the decision to move out can influence interim decisions during divorce proceedings, such as who may reside in the marital home. It's important to note that once a spouse moves out, their access to the home and personal belongings may be restricted until a court order is issued. Therefore, it is advisable for a person considering moving out during a divorce to consult with an attorney to understand the implications and protect their rights.